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>Here's something related that I've wondered about: what do people expect
>from entry-level writers and entry-level positions?
>
Entry level means it is an opportunity for a sharp person to get started and
learn.
I have done some hiring where a degree was required and entry level was
preferred. Entry level meant a former job as a writer was not expected. It
also meant that familiarity with specific tools was not expected. I also
preferred that the degree be technical because the material was technical.
However, the individual was applying for a writing job, and I would expect
to discover some evidence of interest, education, and/or experience in the
field. I looked for someone who seemed genuinely interested in the tasks we
had, who seemed eager and able to learn, and who would be a good personality
fit within our documentation and software development teams. It always
worked out. It was also how I was hired for my first technical writing job.